Ben Carter
Candles are a popular way to create a cosy atmosphere, but what would happen if you drank one? While candle wax is non-toxic, the dyes, scents, and colourings added to candles may be toxic. The size and shape of the wax once it hardens in your body are unpredictable, and it could end up blocking something important, which could be fatal. If you or someone you know has ingested candle wax, it is important to call poison control or a medical professional for advice. To minimise the health risks associated with candles, it is recommended to purchase higher-quality candles and follow candle safety guidelines to prevent fires.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Candle wax toxicity | Candle wax is non-toxic, but the scents and colors added to it may be toxic. |
| Blockages | The human body is not hot enough to keep candle wax melted, so it will harden and may cause blockages. |
| Indigestion/constipation | Even if the candle is non-toxic, indigestion or constipation may occur. |
| Bowel obstruction | Consuming a large amount of candle wax may cause a bowel obstruction, which could be fatal. |
| Poisoning | If a child consumes candle wax, wipe their mouth with a soft, wet cloth and give them water. If problems start, contact a poison control center. |
| Lead exposure | Candles with lead-core wicks may expose you to lead, which has been linked to health risks. |
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What You'll Learn
The wax will harden and cause blockages
While candle wax is non-toxic, drinking it can still be dangerous. The human body is not hot enough to keep candle wax melted, so it will harden quickly after ingestion. The size and shape of the wax once it has hardened are unpredictable, and it could end up clogging something important, leading to a bowel obstruction. This could be fatal, and even if not, getting the wax out would be a huge problem requiring medical help. If a child is found to be eating candle wax, their mouth should be wiped with a soft, wet cloth, and they should be given water to drink. If any problems start, poison control should be contacted immediately.
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Scented candles may contain toxic chemicals
While candle wax is non-toxic, scented candles may contain toxic chemicals. As a candle burns, it releases hydrocarbons—chemical compounds consisting of hydrogen and carbon—into the air. In particular, burning candles release trace quantities of toluene and benzene. Toluene is a common ingredient in paint thinners and adhesives. Exposure to toluene without proper ventilation can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and skin. It can also cause headaches, dizziness, confusion, and anxiety.
Benzene is a gas emitted by forest fires, volcanoes, and burning coal or oil. It is mainly used in industrial and pharmaceutical settings, and the vast majority (90%) of benzene exposure occurs due to smoking. Benzene is carcinogenic, increasing the risk of leukaemia and other blood cancers. While the small amounts of toluene and benzene released by burning a candle are not a significant cause for concern, lower-quality candles may emit more particulate matter and chemicals. Therefore, investing in higher-quality candles can minimise the risk of exposure to toxic chemicals.
In addition to the toxins released by burning candles, the dyes and colourings used in scented candles may also be harmful if ingested. These additives are not regulated as food items and are rarely tested for safety. Ingesting candle wax can potentially cause a bowel obstruction, which can be fatal. The size and shape of the hardened wax can vary, and it may clog vital passageways in the body. Therefore, it is essential to seek medical help if someone drinks candle wax.
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Dye and colouring may be harmful
While candle wax is non-toxic, the dyes, scents, and colourings added to it may be harmful if ingested. These additives are not controlled as food items and are rarely tested for consumption safety. Therefore, consuming them can potentially lead to adverse health effects.
The human body is unable to keep candle wax melted, so ingested wax will quickly harden into random shapes. These hardened wax pieces can cause blockages in the digestive system, leading to bowel obstruction, which can be fatal. The size and shape of the obstructions can vary, and removing them may require medical intervention.
The specific dangers posed by the dyes and colourings in candles depend on their chemical composition. Some colourants may contain toxic substances that can have detrimental effects on the body. The impact of ingesting these toxic dyes can vary depending on the specific chemical involved.
In addition to potential toxicity, the dyes and colourings in candles may also contain allergens or irritants. Some people may experience allergic reactions or irritation in the digestive tract upon consuming these substances.
It is important to note that the potential harm from ingesting candle wax is not limited to the dyes and colourings. The wax itself, although generally non-toxic, can cause discomfort and constipation. Consuming large amounts of wax can lead to bowel obstruction and other serious health complications. Therefore, it is crucial to seek medical advice if candle wax is ingested.
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The candle wax could be non-toxic
While it is not advisable to drink candle wax, if the candle is nontoxic, the worst that can happen is some uncomfortable indigestion or constipation. The human body is not hot enough to keep the wax melted, so it will harden quickly after consumption. The size and shape of the hardened wax are unpredictable, so it could potentially clog something important, which would require medical attention.
The biggest concern with candles is the risk of fire. Firefighters respond to thousands of structure fires caused by candles every year, resulting in injuries and deaths. It is important to follow candle safety guidelines, such as trimming the wick and ensuring proper ventilation to avoid the release of harmful chemicals.
In the past, candles with lead-core wicks were a concern, but most countries have banned their sale and importation. Today, it is recommended to purchase candles with paper-core, cotton, or wood wicks. Lower-quality candles tend to emit more particulate matter and chemicals, so investing in higher-quality candles can be a healthier choice.
If a child is found eating candle wax, it is important to remain calm. Take the candle away, wipe their mouth with a soft, wet cloth, and give them water to drink. If any problems arise, contact a poison control center or a medical professional for advice.
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Call poison control if ingestion occurs
While candle wax is non-toxic, the dyes, scents, and colorings added to candles may not be. The chemicals used to create these additions could be toxic, and the effects would depend on the type of toxic chemical ingested. The size and shape of the ingested wax as it hardens could also cause a blockage in the body. This could lead to a bowel obstruction, which can be fatal.
If you or someone you know has ingested candle wax, it is important to remain calm. Take the candle away from the person and wipe their mouth with a soft, wet cloth. Give them some water to drink. If problems start or you have questions, call poison control immediately.
Poison control centers are open 24/7 and are equipped to handle poisoning emergencies and answer any questions you may have. They can provide guidance and support tailored to your specific situation. It is important to act quickly and seek professional help to ensure the best possible outcome.
The effects of ingesting candle wax can vary, and while some individuals may experience mild indigestion or constipation, others may face more severe consequences. It is always better to be cautious and seek expert advice to ensure the safety and well-being of yourself or those around you.
Remember, every case is unique, and by calling poison control, you can receive fast, free, and confidential advice specific to your situation. They will be able to guide you on the next steps and provide any necessary referrals for further medical assistance.
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Frequently asked questions
If the candle is nontoxic, you may experience uncomfortable indigestion or constipation. However, the human body is not hot enough to keep the wax melted, so it will harden and could cause a bowel obstruction that could be fatal. The dyes and colourings are rarely tested for consumption, so this could also be harmful. If a child is found drinking candle wax, their mouth should be wiped with a soft, wet cloth and they should be given water to drink.
If you experience any problems after drinking candle wax, you should seek medical help immediately. You can also call poison control or your country's equivalent poison centre.
If a child is found eating candle wax, their mouth should be wiped with a soft, wet cloth and they should be given water to drink. If you have any concerns, you should contact your local poison control centre.
No, it is not recommended to drink candle wax under any circumstances. While candle wax itself may be non-toxic, the various scents and colours added to candles may not be safe for consumption.
